Five students from the Oak Harbor High School Career and Technical Education Program received Student of the Semester awards Monday before the school board, family and friends.
Sharleen Eller, chairwoman of the General Advisory Committee, presented the awards to Tom Chandler, Stephanie Black, Ryan Lange, Jessica Hunt, and Camille Merritt.
Sophomore Tom Chandler, 15, was nominated by CAD engineering teacher Ken Bender, who called him one of the youngest and most career dedicated students ever selected. He has taken five tech classes and participated in many school and community activities while working toward his goal of becoming an aerospace engineer.
Senior Stephanie Black, 17, was nominated by visual communications teacher Paula Ottenbreit, who cited Black’s exemplary work as editor of the school annual, as well as her involvement in track, soccer and tennis. As a member of a foster care family, Black said she has learned a lot about life, compassion and leadership. She is interested in becoming a teacher.
Senior Ryan Lange, 18, nominated by Tom Mueller in the construction program, wants to become a plumber and already has his apprenticeship card. In addition to being on the high school football, wrestling and baseball teams, Lange has taken nine technical classes, and Mueller said he could probably teach the class. Lange said he pays attention to detail and works for perfection.
Senior Jessica Hunt, 17, was nominated by Culinary Arts instructor Louise Rueble, who noted Hunt’s excellent leadership skills. Hunt is the captain of the culinary and restaurant operations team, and will be competing in the Seattle Arts Institute competition in March. Hunt is considering combining her love of cooking with an interest in architecture, which could lead to a career in kitchen design.
Senior Camille Merritt, 17, was nominated by marketing instructor Eric Peterson. Merritt recently won first place for her advertising campaign in the Area One DECA competition, and will be competing at the state level. Peterson said Merritt is his top student, and has been a model of motivation to others.
